The probe has sent shockwaves through city hall, prompting fears for Marino’s safety. But the mayor said he was “fundamentally against” the way security escorts are used in Rome.

“In our city there are 1,000 people with an escort. I don’t think there are 1,000 people whose lives are at risk.

“I think that for many politicians having an escort is a comfort; always having a car at home and someone to drive,” Marino said.

Some Italian politicians have, however, faced serious threats from criminal groups. Last year a vocal anti-mafia mayor in Calabria, Maria Carmela Lanzetta, resigned after her car was shot at and her pharmacy burnt down.

Sicily’s Cosa Nostra mafia once plotted to kill Rudolph Giuliani, the former New York mayor, notorious mobster Toto Riina claimed.

But despite the perceived threats against the mayor of Rome, Marino remained determined to tackle the criminal network.

“I am convinced we will remove this stain,” he said. “We will have the pride to bring transparency and legality back to our city.”